Sipho runs the new virtual Comrades Marathon

The Covid-19 pandemic resulted in a virtual Comrades Marathon which local athlete, Sipho Marima, could not miss.

On June 26, Sipho spoke about how his ‘Race for Comrades Legends’ went.
The athlete and Edenglen Virgin Active manager said this year’s race required a lot of discipline and dedication.

There was no Durban atmosphere, filled with runners to lean on for Sipho as he ran alone.

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The runner participated in the Comrades for the first time in 2019.

He said this was by far the best experience of his running career.

“This year, it was so different because most ran the 90km alone while some opted for 45km and 21km races.

“Other runners broke down the 90km into three days, so did I.”
Sipho added it takes passionate people to still run and participate virtually.

The Virgin Active manager explained how people performed on their own.
“It was hard to tell who’s performance stood out; however, I got inspired by individuals who were able to run 40km and 90km, even during level five of lockdown in their backyards.

“They motivated me to also participate in the virtual race,” said Sipho.

This year, the virtual race had options in distance.
“The Comrades Marathon only has the 90km option; however, on the virtual run they had 5km, 21km and 45km.

“People got to participate and got involved in the vibe.
“More people are getting active.”

The Comrades Virtual Challenge Sipho participated in was organised by Urithi Athletics Club chairperson Brenda Marolen.
“She chose athletes and we competed against each other over the 90km race.

“I came in second place,” said Sipho.

On his first day he completed his 30km in 2:29:19.
He said he finished the marathon with a time of 7:53:00.
“It was tough, especially the second day because my legs were heavy and tired but I enjoyed it.”

According to Sipho, the biggest challenge faced by runners was the motivation to keep training when there were no actual races to participate in.
“Virtual races are the new normal for as long as we are within this pandemic, even though they can be lonely, making it easy to lose the drive and determination.”

The athlete added he used lockdown to focus on developing certain skills he struggled with in preparation for the marathon.
“I used this time to work on my speed and strength.
“I do a lot of body weight training to improve my running.
“I also set a personal goal each month to be at a new 10km or 21km record.”

Engaging with other runners that are highly motivated has also helped Sipho during lockdown.
“The motivation rubs off when you are having these conversations.”

Sipho’s advice to other runners was to set a month-to-month goal, work on it and engage with other people.
“It will keep you motivated to work on something you’ve always struggled with, like speed, endurance or strength.

“Maintain your fitness level by getting involved in challenges and virtual races.
“Remember, we don’t run for races but we run because we love it and it is a therapeutic sport.”

Sipho encouraged the community to take up running.
“Start slowly at your own pace and own distance.
“It is very beneficial to your health and also helps you stay focused and goal-oriented.
“Most importantly, it’s fun because few a kilometres a day keeps the doctor away.”